To know where expats live in Turkey, we need to break down the stereotyped profile. Generally, working expats head to big cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara. Retired Western foreigners enjoy the Aegean and Mediterranean coastal holiday resorts. In contrast, Middle Eastern nationalities prefer conservative areas, such as Bursa.
It’s uncommon for people to move inland or to the east. This happens because the infrastructure is less developed, and cultural views are conservative. These are the overall regional areas, but certain towns and cities in the Republic of Turkey stand out as favourites for foreigners. This article explores why they flock to these destinations.
Quick Summary - Where Expats Live in Turkey
Istanbul: For working professionals and foreigners looking to tap into arts and culture societies.
Antalya region: This is Turkey's top beach spot, and includes smaller resorts like beachy Kemer, golfing Belek, historical Side, and Alanya.
Bodrum region: Sits on the Aegean and carries a luxury reputation. The peninsula features the town centre and popular spots like Gumusluk, Yalikavak, Gumbet, and Torba.
Fethiye Region: Sits on the Mediterranean and includes the city centre and smaller resorts such as Hisaronu, Ovacik, Calis Beach, and Uzumlu.
Compared: Best Regions in Turkey for Expats
Destination
Best For
Typical Expat Profile
Cost Level
Main Appeal
Istanbul
Work, schools, culture, business
Professionals, families, investors
High
Turkey’s largest city, with international schools, jobs, airports, culture, and strong property demand
Antalya
Beach city living
Families, retirees, remote workers
Medium
Mediterranean lifestyle, international airport access, hospitals, beaches, and established foreign communities
Premium marina lifestyle, Aegean Sea views, luxury villas, restaurants, and summer home prestige
Fethiye
British expat community and scenic coastal life
Retirees, families, value-led buyers
Medium
Blue Lagoon access, affordable living, Dalaman Airport links, beaches, and a relaxed expat scene
Bursa
Conservative city living and family life
Middle Eastern buyers, families, business owners
Medium
Marmara location, Turkish culture, Uludag skiing, cuisine, and strong regional property interest
Alanya
Affordable Mediterranean living
Germans, Russians, Brits, retirees, families
Low to medium
Beach lifestyle, lower property prices, hospitals, schools, and access to Antalya and Gazipaşa airports
Didim
Budget coastal living
British retirees, value buyers, seasonal residents
Low
Affordable homes, simple resort living, beaches, Temple of Apollo, and lower day-to-day costs
Kalkan
Luxury villa lifestyle
High-end lifestyle buyers, second-home owners
High
Sea-view villas, limited building land, infinity pools, and a quieter Mediterranean setting
More Information About Living in Turkey
1: Istanbul – Turkey’s Most Important City
As Turkey's largest city, Istanbul attracts professionals looking for job opportunities but has the highest property prices and cost of living in the country. It’s like London, Rome, or Milan in terms of global prominence. Foreigners who buy to qualify for the Turkish Citizenship by Investment Programme often purchase in Istanbul, as there is mass expansion on the European side and families can expect access to the best international schools.
Most foreigners prefer the European side, and districts like Sariyer and Besiktas. In Sariyer, neighbourhoods such as Tarabya and Maslak offer modern living close to foreign companies. Those seeking luxury look at Bebek or Etiler, which boast stunning views of the Bosphorus. For history, the area around the Hagia Sophia in Fatih is iconic. However, most long-term residents prefer Beyoglu. Walk down Istiklal Avenue, explore Taksim, or live in the bohemian streets of Cihangir. On the Asian side, Kadikoy features vibrant lifestyles right next to the Bosphorus.
2: Antalya on the Turkish Mediterranean Coast
Antalya, known for Lara and Konyaalti beach districts, attracts Russian, German, and British expats. This city is one of the best places to live, and it ranks high for summer holiday home sales to both foreigners and Turks. Thanks to international tourism, you don't need perfect Turkish to get by. On the surface, Antalya looks cosmopolitan with the five-star hotels and multinational expat communities, but traditional Turkish culture revolves around neighbourhoods like Muratpasa. Antalya Airport is also the top tourist air travel hub in Turkey.
3: Bodrum Peninsula and Coastal Towns
The Turkish culture on this peninsula jutting out into the Aegean Sea is on a different level. Bodrum is famous for the Yalikavak Marina, Turkey’s first mega yacht marina, hence international celebrities and billionaires often visit. With a background in sailing, the Turkish people enjoy the luxury lifestyles of this pivotal point on the Turkish Riviera. Don't expect low costs of living. Bodrum town and the surrounding luxury coastal resorts are all about being seen and networking, and the price tags reflect that.
4: Fethiye and the Blue Lagoon
If you’ve looked at a travel brochure, you might have seen golden sand and bright blue water. That’s probably the Blue Lagoon in Oludeniz, which is in the Fethiye area. Real estate and living costs are surprisingly affordable given the beauty of the landscape and beaches. Recently, a large British expat community has grown, but people from other nationalities have also moved here. The transport network features Dalaman International Airport, an hour's drive away, and an extensive bus network to other parts of Turkey. Sitting off the D400 highway, Fethiye is another area with gorgeous blue flag beaches.
5: Bursa and Uludag Ski Centre
Bursa is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and is a top skiing spot because of Uludag Mountain. Located in the Marmara region, the city has seen property sales soar because Middle Eastern buyers love the similar cultures and cuisine. You won't find English breakfast in Bursa, but you will find a delightful range of Turkish cuisine, including the famous Iskender kebab, which was invented here. Urban growth has been impressive over the last ten years, and Bursa continues to attract global admiration.
6: Alanya
Although it is technically part of Antalya province, Alanya has broken away thanks to the growth of the tourism and real estate industries. Expats are mostly Germans, Russians, and Brits who love the easy access via the D400 highway to Antalya airport and the city centre. Home to the famous blue-flag beach of Cleopatra, certain neighbourhoods like Mahmutlar boast cheap property for sale.
Neighbourhoods range from the bustling, walkable city centre to family-oriented districts like Oba, which features international schools and private hospitals, or the diverse, high-rise community of Mahmutlar. With a well-developed infrastructure that includes the nearby Gazipaşa Airport, high-quality healthcare services, and a cost of living that remains more affordable than many European coastal hubs, Alanya provides a high quality of life.
7: Didim
If cheap and cheerful is what you want, then Didim, known as Altinkum on the Aegean coast, is the place to go. Foreign residents have one complaint: the closure of the residence permit office. Foreigners from Didim and Kusadasi now must travel to Aydin for a residence visa if they want to stay longer than 90 days. The Turkish lira goes much farther in Didim, thanks to the reputation as an affordable place to live. Foreign families don't use public schools; instead, they pay fees for the private American Culture college. The two major claims to fame are the Temple of Apollo historical ruins and the three major beaches.
8: Kalkan on the Lycian Way
Kalkan stands out with stunning, large villas, some of which sell for half a million pounds or more. These prestigious homes feature private infinity pools and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Another reason for the expensive real estate is that limited building land ensures Kalkan will always remain a delightful coastal resort. Kalkan is officially part of the Antalya region and is close to rustic Kas. The only downside is that it’s built on a hill, so you need a car or must use public transport.
Moving to Turkey: Practical Points to Remember
If you are planning to move to Turkey, you can't live on a tourist visa, you need a Turkish Residency Permit or Citizenship. There are logistics to consider, other than choosing where to live. These include health insurance, work permits, opening a Turkish bank account, the residency process and driving licenses.
Most foreigners move to the western and southern regions and don't head to the Black Sea or Anatolia regions. Reasons include harsher weather, fewer beaches, and conservative lifestyles. If you’re planning to buy property, call one of our agents today. They can guide you through the process and show you where expats live in Turkey.
FAQs About Where Expats Live in Turkey
Q: Where do most expats live in Turkey?
A: Most expats in Turkey live in Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum, Fethiye, Alanya, Didim, Bursa, and Kalkan. Working expats often prefer major cities, while retirees and lifestyle buyers usually choose Aegean and Mediterranean coastal towns.
Q: Where do British expats live in Turkey?
A: British expats are especially drawn to Fethiye, Didim, Bodrum, Antalya, and Alanya. These areas offer coastal lifestyles, established foreign communities, English-speaking services, international travel links, and property options ranging from affordable apartments to luxury villas.
Q: What is the best region to live in Turkey for expats?
A: The best region depends on lifestyle and budget. Istanbul suits professionals and families needing schools and business access. Antalya and Fethiye suit beach living, Bodrum suits luxury buyers, while Didim and Alanya appeal to budget-conscious expats.
Q: Where is the cheapest place for expats to live?
A: Didim is one of the most affordable coastal options for expats, especially compared with Bodrum, Istanbul, and Kalkan. Alanya can also offer strong value, particularly in neighbourhoods with apartment communities and everyday local services.
Q: Is Antalya a good place to live?
A: Antalya is one of Turkey’s strongest expat locations because it combines beaches, hospitals, shopping centres, international flights, established foreign communities, and year-round city living. Lara, Konyaalti, Kemer, Belek, Side, and Alanya all attract foreign residents.
Q: Is Bodrum good for expats?
A: Bodrum is excellent for expats seeking luxury coastal living, marina culture, restaurants, sailing, and high-end villas. It is not the cheapest place to live in Turkey, but it remains one of the most prestigious lifestyle destinations.
Q: Is Fethiye popular with expats?
A: Fethiye is very popular with expats, particularly British residents and retirees. Its appeal comes from the Blue Lagoon, nearby resorts such as Hisaronu and Ovacik, Dalaman Airport access, affordable homes, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Q: Do expats live in Istanbul?
A: Yes, many expats live in Istanbul, especially professionals, business owners, investors, and families who want access to international schools, hospitals, offices, airports, and cultural life. Popular districts include Sariyer, Besiktas, Beyoglu, Kadikoy, Etiler, and Bebek.
Q: Where do retired expats live in Turkey?
A: Retired expats often choose coastal towns such as Fethiye, Didim, Alanya, Antalya, Bodrum, and Kalkan. These locations offer beaches, lower living costs than major European cities, property choice, healthcare access, and established foreign communities.
Aleksandra Cihanoğlu Senior Advisor
Aleksandra Cihanoğlu is a Senior Advisor at Property Turkey and a regular contributor on topics including Citizenship by Investment, relocation, travel, and lifestyle opportunities in Turkey. Her writing focuses on helping international readers understand the practical realities of living, investing, and building a long-term future in the country.
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Senior Advisor
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